Bloomington-Normal Youth Orchestra

The concert concludes Logan Campbell's second full year on the podium after decades of leadership by Deanne Bryant. Campbell sought to keep the positive culture of the youth orchestra — while upping the rigor and repertoire.

Deanne Bryant launched a district-wide Unit 5 string program in 1969, ensuring access to instruments often left out of school curriculums. Five decades later, Bloomington-Normal is lauded statewide for its high quality music education.

Bryant pioneered string programs in Unit 5 schools and led the Bloomington-Normal Youth Symphony for three decades. She recently stepped down and will conduct her final piece with BYNS Saturday at the Illinois Symphony's Holiday Pops in the Heartland.

The Illinois Symphony's popular "Holiday Pops in the Heartland" comes to Illinois State University's Concert Hall Saturday with a combined orchestra, joining players from Bloomington-Normal Youth Symphony, Springfield Choral Society and more.